The National Powwow is a once-every-three-years event, and it’s returning to Danville, Indiana (Hendricks County) from July 3 – 6 at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds. Started in 1969, this is one of the nation’s biggest events to promote awareness and education of the Native American culture.

National Powwow XVI is a four-day event that will feature traditional singers and dancers dressed in full costume, demonstrations of primitive skills, a historic tipi village, ethnic foods, artisans, activities for the kids, and a lot more. There will also be 100 vendors selling American Indian jewelry, musical instruments, and Native American art and crafts.

Highlights of the event include a special dance to honor Veterans on July 4, a parade and children’s powwow on July 5, daily Birds of Prey shows, a national craft contest, and the crowning of the National Powwow princess.

Dancers in traditional regalia at the National Powwow.

The organizers must have really liked their stay in Danville, because the last time they were here was 2011, just three years ago. The National Powwow has been held in Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri and Tipton, Indiana. To come here again must mean Danville is doing something right. They’re expecting 700 participants from around the U.S. and Canada, and 2,000 visitors.

Gates open every day at 8:30 am, and tickets are $5 daily for adults, $2 for children 5-12, and children under 5 are free. Select groups can receive a special discounted $1 admission throughout the event. Those special days include: